Choosing Courses

Types of Courses in Grades 9 and 10

In disciplines like the arts, health and physical education and business studies, all students will take the same type of course, called an open course. In the core subjects like mathematics or English, you will be able to choose between the academic or applied stream. Courses in the academic stream draw more heavily on theory and abstract thinking, while applied courses focus more on practical applications and concrete examples.

Applied Courses – Course Code P

These courses focus on the essential learning concepts of the subject. You will develop knowledge and skill through both theory and practical applications, but the focus will be on practical applications. Familiar, real-life situations will be used to illustrate ideas and opportunities will be given to students to experience hands-on applications of the concepts studied.

Academic Courses – Course Code D

Academic courses focus on the essential learning concepts of the subject, plus additional related concepts. Although students will develop knowledge and skills in the subject through both theory and practical applications, the emphasis will be on theory and abstract thinking as a basis for future learning and problem solving.

Open Courses – Course Code O

There are also open courses which are appropriate for all students. These courses may be taken to meet compulsory or optional requirements for graduation, or they may be taken for your personal interest.

Locally Developed Compulsory Credit Courses – Course Code L

We may also offer Ministry of Education approved locally developed courses in English, mathematics, history and science for students who require additional background knowledge and skills. These courses may be counted as compulsory credits. Speak to your guidance counsellor for more information.

Types of Courses in Grades 11 and 12

In Grades 11 and 12, you can choose university preparation, university or college preparation, college preparation, workplace preparation and open courses.

University Preparation Courses – Course Code U

These courses will give you the knowledge and skills needed to meet the entrance requirements for university programs. Teaching and learning will emphasize theoretical aspects of the course content, but will also include concrete applications.

University/College Preparation Courses – Course Code M

These courses are designed to give you the knowledge and skills needed to meet the entrance requirements of specific university and college programs. Teaching and learning will emphasize both theoretical aspects and related concrete applications of the course content.

College Preparation Courses – Course Code C

These courses will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the entrance requirements for college programs. Teaching and learning will emphasize concrete applications of the theoretical material covered in the course, and will also emphasize the development of critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

Workplace Preparation Courses – Course Code E

These courses are designed to give you the knowledge and skills needed for you to directly enter the workplace or for admission to apprenticeship and other training programs offered in the community. Teaching and learning will emphasize workplace applications of the course content, but will also explore the theoretical material that underlies these practical applications. Cooperative education and work experience placements within the community are important components.

Open Courses in Grades 11 and 12

Open courses in Grades 11 and 12 will allow you to broaden your knowledge and skills in a particular subject that may or may not be directly related to your post-secondary goals. These courses usually reflect your interests. They are appropriate for all students regardless of post-secondary destination. These courses are designed to provide students with a broad educational base and to equip them for active and rewarding participation in society. They are not designed with the specific requirements of university or college programs or the workplace in mind. Over the course of your four years in high school, your interests and goals might change as you gain experience and learn about new career options.